Insider Tips

Verbier, with its stunning settings is one
of my favorite ski-resorts world-wide. And very convenient that I’ve many
friends with chalets & flats here too. If skiing is not your sport,
there are many other activites to enjoy, especially in the summer months when
Verbier becomes quite a hot spot. I’ll share my tips to ensure you make the most
of your time in this alpine resort town.

Other Sports/Active

Verbier Summits—Paragliding Parapente: Let Stu know I
sent you. Up up and away, tandem of course. What an amazing
experience—can’t wait to go back up over the alps. (+41 79 313 5677 / +41
79 710 9132; stu@verbier-summits.com)

Husky Sledding—Swiss Mountain Spirit: We were two
adults and two little girls—definitely one of the highlights of my trip!
The dogs are gorgeous—photos and video can be taken. Just ask! What fun
and there’s a secret only those who have experienced this ride can know … Min:
2 Pers Max: 4 Adults Adult: Adult – €80 (+41 27 771 8300 M: +41 279 206
9851; info@swiss-mountain-spirit.com)

Great Golfing for Summer—Severiano Ballesteros course, known to
be one of the finest in the Alps, just 1 hour drive from Verbier Town: par 71,
18 hole course facing 400 meter peaks and Sion 18 hole, par 70 course
(www.crans-montana.ch). For a course closer to town
(www.verbiergolf.com).

Ski hard, play hard—going out

Off-Shore: More avant-ski than apres ski, Verbier regulars like Eva Hoeffelman,
and early birds, stop here for their breakfast, be it continental or American
(French toast, pancakes, eggs any style). Located next to the Medran main
station.

Farinet Lounge: The lounge of the Farinet hotel has
definitely upgraded the apres-ski of Verbier. I’m obviously not talking about
the hideous conservatory with live music, but the lounge and bar more inside
the hotel, which offers great cocktails, comfy leather sofas and great DJs.
It’s so popular that regulars now even go there before the Farm or Coco or
sometimes even have a casual dinner of the Thai and Mexican platters.

The Milk Bar: Above the Chaumiere cheese shop, the Milk Bar is a paradise for
anybody who loves big ice-cream ‘coupes’ deserts, fresh milkshakes, home-made
cakes and delicious savory and sweet crepes. Ideal for tea-time, breakfast or a
treat for the kids.

Best Shops

La Chaumiere: One of the most exclusive cheese shops my insider Eva has ever
seen. It has a very unique cheese selection, their signature yogurts,
ice-cream, meringues and a wonderful selection of Swiss wines.
(+41 27 771 25 30/ 79 279 62 63)

Gilles: A lovely boutique at the Place Centrale that stocks Tods, Fay, Custo
tops, Anne Fontaine shirts, a fantastic selection of jeans and many other
exclusive European casual-wear brands.

Ski Service: An institution for those who want the latest fashionable ski-wear,
carrying brands like Jet Set, Prada, Bogner, Arc’teryx and Gant.

Peak Performance General Store: The ski-wear brand of choice by many amateur
skiers, both men and women. This Swedish brand has become increasingly popular
because of its professional texture and still attractive look.

Fellay Sports: Large ski and apres-ski store with a wonderful lingerie department
downstairs for all ages. The best collection of furry apres-ski boots for
ladies.

Eva recommends
the Kid’s Club (+41 27 775 3363) run by Verbier Sport at the Moulins nursery
slope. They have their own lift and restaurant. Les Schtroumpfs
(+41 27 771 6585), also at Moulins childcare is offered for little ones aged
three months to four years.

Seasonal Events

Verbier Polo Cup: 2010 dates to be announced (2009 dates: January
30 – February 2)